Net earnings for the period was recorded at A$730 million, although this was partially offset by a 39 per cent rise in earnings to A$425 million in the second half compared to the preceding six months. 

The positive result was driven mostly by a strong performance from its fixed income, currencies and commodities units, as well as its annuity style businesses, which are composed of Macquarie funds, corporate and asset finance and banking and financial services. In specific, the net profit contribution of the annuity division was up 22 per cent from 2011.

The firm's assets under management as of March 2012 were at A$327 billion, up from A$310 billion in the previous year. International income accounted for 60 per cent of its total income in 2012.

"All of Macquarie's operating groups maintained strong franchise positions during the year, notwithstanding challenging global market conditions," the company said in a statement.

Macquarie Group saw around A$420 million in cost reductions during the year, mostly through cutting front office costs and reducing the scope of some businesses. Staff numbers also fell from 15,556 in 31 March 2011 to 14,202 in 31 March 2012.